Netflix is expanding its presence in the NFL, but not in the way some might expect. The streaming giant will increase its game broadcasts from two per year in 2024 and 2025 to five in 2026. While the company has expressed interest in deepening its relationship with the league, it has no intention of securing a full-season package of professional football games.
In an appearance on Fox Business, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos clarified the company’s strategy, stating,
“We’re leaning into the eventized event. We’re not bidding on whole seasons of sports, including the NFL.”
The NFL had previously pitched Netflix on a Sunday morning package of games, which would have likely included international contests tailored for a global streaming audience. However, Netflix declined the offer, reinforcing its focus on select, high-profile events rather than a comprehensive weekly schedule.
This decision narrows the pool of potential partners for the NFL when current broadcasters—CBS, Fox, NBC, ABC/ESPN, and Prime Video—may delay renegotiations until 2029 (or 2030 for ABC/ESPN) to avoid higher costs for four additional seasons of football.
Despite Netflix’s stance, other platforms could step in. Apple and YouTube might consider a full-season package, while Prime Video could opt to take on two games per week if it chooses to expand its NFL footprint.
The league and its current partners are now navigating a complex landscape of negotiations, with Fox reportedly attempting to maintain the status quo by leveraging political influence. The coming years will reveal how these strategic moves play out in what has become a high-stakes game of strategy among broadcasters.
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